Pulses: The Hottest New Healthy Food Trend You *Need* to Try

By now you may have heard of one of the newest healthy food trends of 2016: pulses. Pulses are part of the legume family, and include dried peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas. You already know these foods are incredibly versatile — there are tons of healthy bean dessert recipes out there, and hummus has been your fave since… well, forever —but you may not be fully aware of the superfood status they hold. They’re very high in protein and fiber (perfect if you’re vegan), ensuring that you stay full and happy for a long time. Embrace the newest food fad by exploring these 15 recipes that will get you started on the road to conquering the pulse.

1. Baked Peruano Beans With Mexican Chorizo: Slow cooking dried beans is a fantastic way to preserve their nutrients and flavor, and baking them in the oven does just that. If you can’t find Peruano beans, great northern or cannellini beans would work just fine. (via Fake Food Free)

2. Balsamic Lentil Salad: Lentils are very absorbent, which makes them perfect for dressing with a tangy maple balsamic vinaigrette. Cucumbers and red peppers add crunch to the salad, and if you feel like adding cheese, goat or feta would be a great choice. (via Destination Delish)

4. Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Stuffed With Black Beans: You don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in this comfort food. This dish packs protein and fiber from the spiced black beans, loads of vitamins and antioxidants from the baked sweet potato and healthy fats from the avocado on top. Serve as a hearty side or a vegetarian meal all on its own. (via Delicious Everyday)

5. Green Power Protein Salad: Skip the green smoothie and opt for this filling salad boasting loads of protein. Lentils, kale, spinach and broccoli will energize your lunch break and keep you full while making your co-workers way jealous of your lunch. (via Bound by Food)

6. Lentil Hummus: Making your own hummus is a great way to control what you’re putting in your body. This lentil version is a resourceful way to use up leftovers and makes for a satisfying appetizer or afternoon snack. (via Gluten Free With L.B.)

7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This simple salad is bursting with fresh flavor. It can be served with pita as a deconstructed hummus, or on top of toasty bread or a bed of greens for a light salad. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, this is a versatile recipe you *need* to know. (via Haute and Healthy Living)

8. Black Beans Vegetarian Meatballs: These meatballs are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan. They would go great alongside roasted broccoli and rice or your favorite spaghetti and pasta sauce. Even the most carnivorous will love these black bean faux meatballs. (via Pure Ella)

10. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Meet your new favorite Meatless Monday dish. Toothsome lentils and beefy mushrooms sub in for meat in this comforting shepherd’s pie. It’s so hearty, you’ll be surprised at how little it takes to fill you up. (via The Cookful)

13. Vegan Sloppy Joes: Chances are, you grew up with sloppy joes on the table. Whether they were from the school cafeteria or your mom whipped them up on a busy Tuesday night, they probably weren’t that healthy. This vegan version hits all of the same flavor notes, but is totally guilt-free. (via Minimalist Baker)

14. Spicy Bean Balls With Kale: These miniature spicy bean balls are the perfect snack when you need a bit of extra energy. They’re incredibly filling for their size, and most importantly, they’re delicious. These would be perfect with a salad for lunch or as a quick bite on the go. (via Green Evi)